Grilled Stuffed Zucchini is a light, flavorful dish that makes the perfect appetizer or side. With tender zucchini shells filled with a savory mixture of garlic, onion, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this dish is grilled to perfection, making it a healthy, satisfying option for any meal. It’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at your next BBQ or dinner gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Grilled Stuffed Zucchini are not only delicious but also healthy! The zucchini shells are filled with a flavorful combination of sautéed garlic, onions, bread crumbs, and melted cheeses that balance perfectly with the fresh mint. Grilled to tender perfection, these zucchini halves are a light and savory dish that pairs well with nearly any entrée. It’s a great way to enjoy summer squash while keeping your meal fresh and light. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a healthy side or appetizer! Grilled Stuffed Zucchini

Ingredients

4 medium zucchini
5 teaspoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon minced fresh mint
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the zucchini: Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch shells. Brush the zucchini halves with 2 teaspoons of olive oil and set them aside. Chop the zucchini flesh into small pieces.
Sauté the filling: In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped zucchini flesh and red onion for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute longer until fragrant.
Make the filling: Stir in the bread crumbs and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bread crumbs turn golden brown. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Add the cheese: Stir in the mozzarella cheese, fresh mint, and salt to the mixture. This will create a creamy, cheesy filling.
Stuff the zucchini: Spoon the mixture into the zucchini shells, pressing gently to pack the filling in.
Grill the zucchini: Sprinkle the stuffed zucchini with grated Parmesan cheese. Grill the zucchini halves, covered, over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Serve the stuffed zucchini warm, garnished with extra mint or cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings (2 stuffed zucchini halves per person)
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: To make the dish more substantial, you can add cooked ground turkey, sausage, or chicken to the filling.
Make it Vegan: Substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeño to the filling.
Herb Variations: If you don’t have fresh mint, you can substitute with basil, oregano, or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a microwave if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of zucchini?

Yes, you can use any type of summer squash or zucchini in this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time if using larger zucchinis.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to cook, simply stuff the zucchini and grill.

Can I bake the stuffed zucchini instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake the stuffed zucchini at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is golden.

How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, feta, or goat cheese.

Conclusion

Grilled Stuffed Zucchini is a delicious, healthy, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or light main, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress. With a savory filling of garlic, onion, and cheese, all nestled inside perfectly grilled zucchini, it’s a dish that’s both flavorful and light, making it an ideal choice for a fresh summer meal!